Sonia’s commitment to education is unwavering, as demonstrated by her previous roles as Acting Principal for Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Primary Sefton in 2021 and Assistant Principal at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Primary Sefton from 2019 to 2020. Sonia has recently worked as School Principal for Sacred Heart Catholic Primary School Villawood from 2021 to 2022. Through her visionary leadership, she has been able to inspire and motivate her teams to achieve remarkable results, setting new benchmarks for academic excellence and student achievement.
With her unparalleled passion for education and her proven leadership abilities, Sonia Tannous is a force to be reckoned with in the field of school leadership.
What inspired your path into education?
Growing up, I felt a huge fulfillment in ‘giving back.’ When faced with the question ‘What am I going to do once I finish school?’ education seemed like a perfect fit, and I have not looked back. Being blessed with a caring upbringing and having wonderful educators in my schooling, I was inspired with the notion of shaping young minds to believe and achieve in their dreams at school, and beyond.
How have you grown as a principal?
To be given the opportunity to work beside colleagues and create a shared vision ensuring the students are at the core of decision making is something I value. With each community I have been given the privilege to lead, understanding their unique attributes has been key to successful leadership. Working in partnership with the parish and parent community ensures the core values of faith, love and respect are instilled within each child which is imperative in growing a school.
How do you engage parents/ carers, students and staff?
I believe in being present with open and honest communication. With clear communication, engaging with parents allows the path to be strengthened between home and school. Providing a supportive environment where staff are encouraged and challenged enables capacity building and continuous learning to reflect authentic student achievements.
How does your faith impact your leadership style?
My faith is deeply instilled and important to me ensuring that God’s work is reflected in my everyday actions amongst the students, staff and parents. Through my actions, the Catholic values and beliefs I hold dearly align perfectly through our school motto ‘Victory through the Cross.’ Walking beside, rather than in front, humbles me in my work.
If we asked your closest friends, how would they describe you as a person?
I asked my friends this and they replied with honest, loyal, exudes warmth, kind, creative, calm, dependable, genuine, non-judgmental, problem-solver and funny.
What do you hope to achieve as Principal at your school?
My hope is to build upon the important work that has already begun at Holy Cross focussing on student achievement and wellbeing, strengthening parent engagement and providing a safe and nurturing environment for the whole school community.
What will you hope to leave as your legacy in education leadership?
When a goal is set and you genuinely believe there is some small possibility that it is achievable, you will fight your way to pursue it.